The Material World

Learn about the organic compounds that make up lipstick as well as about some of the chemistry that goes into this popular cosmetic.

When you hurt your ankle, thermodynamics can help you heal! An endothermic reaction reduces the swelling by cooling your injury.

Radiocarbon dating is a method of radiometric dating. Learn how archaeologists use carbon isotopes to find the age of organic materials at archaeological sites.

The life and death of stars form the chemical elements that make up Earth, making stars critical to life as we know it.

One of the greatest hazards that humans in space face is cosmic radiation. Learn what cosmic radiation is, why it's dangerous, and ways that we are looking at protecting humans in deep space.

In a few decades, some of the electricity you use might be generated by bacteria.

Explore acid-base chemical reactions that really get things bubbling in the kitchen!

How do magnetic fields help you get down safely from the top of a drop tower ride? Learn how electromagnetic induction works at the amusement park.

Learn how moving water can be used to generate electricity. This is called hydroelectric power generation.

Put on your running shoes and sharpen your pencil! Investigate the mathematical connection between work and power in this hands-on activity.

Hydrogen’s tendency towards combustion is what makes it both a dangerous chemical element and a useful energy source.

You can make your own terrarium for growing plants!

Learn how to make a pH indicator and test water samples.

Have you ever experienced static electricity? Like when you pull a wool sweater over your head in the winter? See what else static electricity can do in this hands-on activity.

Explore the chemistry behind why bananas turn brown. Can chemistry also help prevent this?